Changing the Narrative

Cardi B and Rita Ora open up about having “romantic relationships” with women.

May 16, 2018

American rapper; Cardi B and Pop sensation; Rita Ora have both admitted to having sexual experiences with “a lot of women”. This is due to backlash from their new single; Girls, which has been hailed as a “bisexual anthem” for its lyrical content. The track – which also features Charli XCX and Bebe Rexha – contains lyrics such as: “I ain’t one-sided, I’m open-minded, I’m 50-50 and I’m never gonna hide it.”

Listen to the track below:

The Bodak Yellow star addressed her sexuality in a series of tweets after LGBTQ artists such as Kehlani and Hayley Kiyoko called the song “harmful” upon its release. Here’s what Hayley had to say;

“Every so often there comes certain songs with messaging that is downright tone-deaf, which does more harm than good for the LGBTQ+ community. A song like this just fuels the male gaze while marginalizing the idea of women loving women. I know this wasn’t the intention of the artists on the song, but it’s the lack of consideration behind these lyrics that really get me. I don’t need to drink wine to kiss girls; I’ve loved women my entire life.

“This type of message is dangerous because it completely belittles and invalidates the very pure feelings of an entire community. I feel I have a responsibility to protect that whenever possible.”

In response, Cardi B told fans: “We never try to cause harm or had bad intentions with the song. I personally myself had experiences with other woman, shiieeett with a lot of woman! I though the song was a good song and I remember my experience.”

She then apologised for language she may have used in the past that would be deemed “offensive to the LGBT community.“Not everyone knows the correct “terms” to use. I learned and I stopped using it,” she added.

Rita Ora also made a statement addressing the backlash;

“Girls was written to represent my truth and is an accurate account of a very real and honest experience in my life. I have had romantic relationships with women and men throughout my life and this is my personal journey.

“I am sorry how I expressed myself in my song has hurt anyone. I would never intentionally cause harm to other LGBTQ+ people or anyone. Looking forward, I hope that continuing to express myself through my art will empower my fans to feel as proud of themselves as I’m learning to feel about who I am.”

She continued: “I’m ever thankful to my fans for teaching me to love myself no matter what. I have strived to be a contributor to the LGBTQ+ community throughout my entire career and always will be.”